Press Release — Provided by Wildwood Soup Kitchen
Wildwood, FL —Nov. 6, 2025— For more than 30 years, the Wildwood Soup Kitchen has been a lifeline for individuals and families across Sumter County, including The Villages area. Each week, the 100% volunteer-run nonprofit provides over 4,000 free meals to the hungry, the homeless, and the homebound.
Now, this beloved community institution is facing its greatest challenge yet: the loss of its long-time home. The kitchen’s landlord has requested that the organization either vacate the building or drastically reduce its hours and space — a move that would significantly cut meal service for the region’s most vulnerable residents.
“This kitchen has always been about more than food — it’s about community,” said Barbara McManus, President of the Wildwood Soup Kitchen. “We’ve served here for over three decades, and we can’t turn our backs on the people who depend on us.”
A Legacy of Compassion
Located on Barwick Street in Wildwood, the Soup Kitchen operates entirely on donations, grants, and the hard work of volunteers. Partnering with Feeding America, local stores, and generous neighbors, the kitchen prepares and delivers thousands of hot, nutritious meals every week — all at no cost to those in need.
Beyond feeding the hungry, the organization provides connection and dignity to those often forgotten. Volunteers not only cook and serve meals but also check in on homebound residents and offer comfort and conversation.
A Call to Action: Help Secure a Permanent Home
The Wildwood Soup Kitchen has identified a new potential location that would allow it to continue and expand its mission — but it needs the community’s help to make it happen. The organization aims to raise $1.5 million through a combination of donations, grants, and loans to purchase and equip a new facility by January 2026.
“We know this community has a big heart,” said Jeff Hetrick, Kitchen Manager. “If everyone who’s ever volunteered, donated, or been touched by this place contributes what they can, we’ll reach our goal and secure our future.”
How to Help
Donations of any amount are tax-deductible, and multiple giving options are available — including cash, check, online gifts, and stock donations.
Visit www.wildwoodsoupkitchen.org to make a contribution or learn more about the capital campaign.
About the Wildwood Soup Kitchen
Founded over 30 years ago, the Wildwood Soup Kitchen is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting hunger and fostering community in Sumter County. Entirely volunteer-run, the kitchen provides free in-house meals, takeout, and home delivery to thousands of individuals and families each week.
